Guinea: Opposition claims electoral fraud Feb. 4 /update 2

Event

Opposition members claim that massive electoral fraud was carried out by the ruling party during local elections that took place on Sunday, February 4. Skirmishes between rival opponent supporters and between opposition activists and security forces reportedly occurred throughout the country during the vote counting. Further clashes are likely in the lead up to the announcement of the election results, expected between Monday, February 5, and Wednesday, February 7.

Context

Local elections took place nationwide on February 4, the first since 2005. Political clashes between supporters of rival parties left around ten people wounded and several vehicles destroyed in Conakry on January 30.

Political protests take place on a regular basis throughout the country. Civil society protest groups - mainly organized by the political opposition - denounce what they claim is a failure of governance by President Alpha Condé and his party, blaming him for the country’s poor economic performance. Demonstrators also denounce corruption, the high cost of living, public health problems, and general insecurity. Clashes between anti-government demonstrators and police regularly take place during protests.

Advice

Individuals in Guinea are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations and protests due to the risk of violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.